The "sea egg" is a common name for the edible sea urchin, particularly species such as *Tripneustes ventricosus* found in the Caribbean. Sea urchins are harvested primarily for their roe, a delicacy in many cuisines, especially in Japan where it is known as "uni." The global sea urchin fishing industry is dominated by countries with rich coastal habitats; Japan, Chile, and the United States (notably California and Maine) are among the top producers, with significant contributions from Russia, South Korea, and several Mediterranean nations. In the Caribbean, countries like Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago have traditional sea egg fisheries, though overfishing and habitat loss have caused population declines and stricter regulations. The industry is economically important in these regions, supporting both local consumption and international export markets, particularly to Japan, where demand for high-quality sea urchin roe remains strong.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Martinique | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.